Autumn leaf banner

 

Its true that I need to feel Fall all around me.  So, instead of peaking out of my windows trying to find new shades of color on the leaves across the river I brought them inside to be with me every moment, day or night.  I gathered these on our stroll in Central Park.  I think I started a new tradition...

All I did was tie each of the leaves on by making a slip knot (I think that's what its called).  Below is a short video tutorial.  Its super simple.  You must bring the Autumn leaves into your home in this way.  The light on the leaves is pure beauty.  Enjoy!

* Please disregard the background sound on the video. Next time, I know better than to film while the little one is playing.

guest-post

Today I am guest posting as part of the DIY series going on at Fancy That!.   Its about this little calendar I made.  It has been the best!  I am flattered to be featured. 
Check it out.

Tutorial: How to starch a doily

You should know this was my first time starching a doily (such a funny word, doily).  I had made it for a friend and wasn't sure how the finished product would turn out.  I can say that I am pleased with the result of my crocheting of the doily and the starching.  Here is how I did the starching:

You will need: 

a piece of cardboard or foam board

plastic wrap

pins

craft glue

ziploc bag

water

Before you start, mix a solution using the craft glue and equal parts water.  (this part scared me, so I used a lot more water than called for.  next time I'll be braver and more accurately follow the instructions.)  This will make it stiff.

Next, rinse the doily in warm water.  You can choose to wash it with mild soap/detergent (if you choose to use soap, put it on your hand and wet your hand before touching the doily to it.  then gently rub your hand on both sides just enough to apply soap to both sides) then rinse with warm water.  DO NOT squeeze or ring the doily, handle it gently.

Following the warm water rinse, place the wet doily (don't ring or squeeze) into the glue/water solution.  Be sure to immerse the doily. 

Seal ziploc and let soak for 1 minute.

 While you wait for the doily to soak in the solution, spread the plastic wrap over the cardboard and pin in place. 

Spread out gently and pin in place.  Remember: the shape you pin will be the shape of the doily so, pin well.

 Let the doily dry completely.  Then you're done. 

* the pattern and starching instructions from the book: Learn to Make Stunning Doilies.  The patterns are pretty, easy enough for me (a semi beginner - new to the terms and reading a pattern for the first time), and there are several to choose from.  I highly recommend this pattern book.

//  Don't be surprised if you receive a doily from me for Christmas...  The End....